A renowned Hollywood actor was seen in an unrecognizable state while running errands in New York City this past Friday. The 71-year-old star was spotted grocery shopping, showcasing a rare public appearance after a long hiatus from acting.

Former Hollywood Star Spotted in NYC After Years of Low Profile and Limited Public Appearances

Rick Moranis makes a rare public appearance

The actor in question is Rick Moranis, who bundled up in a brown leather jacket, suede gloves, and a stylish newsboy cap. During his outing, he was seen carrying a reusable tote bag as he navigated through a leafy neighborhood to pick up some essentials at a convenience store. Rick patiently waited for his turn at the cashier, exemplifying his low-key approach to this brief public excursion.

Former Hollywood Star Spotted in NYC After Years of Low Profile and Limited Public Appearances

The impact of a past attack on his public life

Since retiring from acting two decades ago, Moranis has kept a low profile, further withdrawing from public life following an unprovoked attack in 2020. The incident occurred on the Upper West Side, where he was attacked by Marquis Ventura. Ventura received a two-year prison sentence in August 2022 after initially denying the charges but later pleading guilty to assaulting the beloved comedian.

Former Hollywood Star Spotted in NYC After Years of Low Profile and Limited Public Appearances

Detailing the attack and its repercussions

The assault on Moranis took place on October 1, 2020, and was captured on surveillance cameras. At the time, he was walking southbound on Central Park West when he was unexpectedly struck in the head by Ventura, resulting in Moranis falling to the ground. Ventura has a history of violence, with over thirteen arrests for various offenses, including other random attacks in New York City that year.

Former Hollywood Star Spotted in NYC After Years of Low Profile and Limited Public Appearances

Rick Moranis: A celebrated career and personal struggles

Moranis, born in Toronto, Canada, made a name for himself with significant roles in several iconic films, including Strange Brew, Ghostbusters, and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. His successful career slowed following his wife’s death in 1991 from breast cancer, which led him to focus on raising his children, Rachel and Mitchell, as a single parent. He stated in an interview that the challenges of balancing his acting career with parenting prompted him to take an extended break from Hollywood.

Former Hollywood Star Spotted in NYC After Years of Low Profile and Limited Public Appearances

A shift to voice work and a quiet life

Although Moranis has largely retreated from the limelight, he made selective appearances in voice roles for animated projects, such as the 2003 film Brother Bear. Reflecting on his absence from the screen, Moranis remarked how he found the transition away from acting to be fulfilling, as he was able to invest time in raising his family.

Former Hollywood Star Spotted in NYC After Years of Low Profile and Limited Public Appearances
Former Hollywood Star Spotted in NYC After Years of Low Profile and Limited Public Appearances